Trained to serve

Dear Editor:

It is so hard, it is really tough …

Our young, returning veterans. Folks serving in civilian services by choice, e.g., law enforcement, fire fighting, ambulance service, and the like that certainly include danger, adrenalin rushes and close relationships as members of a “team” are at an advantage over those in our military. Time for change comes to all; but those in civilian service have time to make plans and begin to transition to something different in the way of service that will help fill the void of what they are doing. What needs to be understood is that our returning vets do not have that privilege — all of a sudden, they are “coming home” and we are all so happy to have them home; but we need to do all we can to encourage and assist them to transition to new responsibilities to fill that void in their lives — not to erase memories but to turn to something new that helps them retain the self-esteem they experienced in meeting our military needs around the world. They are not “ready” for extended vacations, they are used to being “involved” 24/7. They are trained to serve — what a blessing.